Ingress Ratings Sold as Marketing against a Real Test Report
Verify ingress claims using ISO IEC 17025 accredited test reports detailing pre and post electrical insulation checks rather than marketing datasheets.
IP68 Rating
Ingress Classification
Standardized environmental protection levels define the resistance of electrical enclosures to dust and prolonged water immersion. The ip68 rating specifies that an enclosure is dust-tight and can withstand continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer. This classification is used for devices that must operate underwater for extended periods.
It is more stringent than the standard temporary immersion level.
Immersion testing
Testing is conducted at a greater depth or for a longer duration than the standard thirty-minute test. To qualify for the ip68 rating, the enclosure must remain sealed under the specific pressure and time conditions agreed upon. This often involves testing at depths of several meters for multiple days.
The exact parameters must be clearly specified on the product datasheet.
Sealing Design
High-performance gaskets and sealed cable entries are required to withstand the continuous hydrostatic pressure. For devices with the ip68 rating, the sealing system must resist the constant squeeze without creeping or degrading. Cable glands and vents must also be rated to the same or higher levels of protection.
This prevents water from migrating along the cable threads.
Application Scope
This level is typical for subsea sensors, deep-well pumps, and rugged communication equipment. It ensures prolonged protection.